Out to Canaan

This is the first book I've read by Jan Karon, and I must admit that I was enthralled. It is the fourth in a series, "The Mitford Years." I probably should have read the previous three books first, usually a good plan with a series like the long Aubrey/Maturin series by Patrick O'Brian. But this book stands alone very well. Oddly, I'm now starting the sixth book in the series, "A Common Life: The Wedding Story," in which the events described obviously precede the events in "Out of Canaan." I'm frankly perplexed that Karon would write them apparently out of order."Out of Canaan" is the story of the rector of an Episcopal church, his wife and friends in the very small southern community of Mitsford. In fact, nearly the entire population of 200 souls seems to be involved in the story in some way. Everyone knows everyone else.This is really a good story. The protagonist and most of the other characters are devoted Christians, and there are many Christian references: Bible quotations, hymn lyrics, and other references. The story will probably not be appreciated by atheists, but may be of interest to folks of other religious faiths who can identify with the human feelings portrayed, and ignore dogma conflicts.Although there is some conflict in the plot--otherwise, there would be no story--one cannot characterize it as suspenseful. For those impatient people who demand suspense and a brisk pace toward the resulution of the conflict, this book might be characterized as "boring." For me, it was a delightful experience. If you like to read, and appreciate nice turns of phrase and realistic characters--the kind of people you know and meet every day--you'll probably enjoy this book. Personally, I loved it.Joseph H. Pierre

Even after consuming this book a couple of times, I am still quite in awe of Ms. Karon's mastery of her art. Father Tim and Cynthia join the roller coaster ride of married life, raising a teenager, and balancing their vocations, with faith and love and abounding hope. A delightful dog, cantankerous kitty, and a marvelous mix of friends figure into this tale that revolves around small town politics.

I have zoomed through the first 4 Mitford books and am now midway through the 5th. The characters grab you and transport you to a town where I think, deep down, we would all like to call home. Father Tim is a "real" person with very human characteristics. Yet his basic goodness will restore your faith in humanity. The theology is not shoved down your throat, but rather is grasped between the lines. All the characters are memorable. Cynthia and Dooley in particular help shape the wonderful story line. The huge dog, Barnabus, who is disciplined only by hearing Bible verse, worms his way into your heart. I am so glad I discovered this series, and I recommend it to absolutely anyone!

I enjoyed this one the best of all, over the past three books the development of the characters has evolved, not only in the authors writing but in my mind as well. It is a pleasure to pick up this book and feel, on the very first page, at home. I am just starting the new one and am a little bit melancholy realizing we may have to wait a while for a new one. Anyone who wants to read a great wholesome, very spiritual book will want to read this one. I cried at the end...so, my hat is off to Jan Karon. Keep it up...

Living in a small town myself I could give each character a face in this wonderful series(Mitford Years)by Jan Karon. After reading Home in Mitford, I went to check out A Light in the Window, the second of the series, and found the book missing from the local library. I found out my neighbor had it and begged her to please let me have it while she finished another book she was reading. You can do this in a small town. The Mitford years are the most heartfelt and relaxing books I have ever read. Jan has a way of speaking to your heart and making you feel very much a part of Mitford. Jan please don't stop here, your books are absolutely the best ever. These books have renewed my faith in God and made me value my friends even more.